Afghanistan has banned eight private security firms...Among the companies whose operations are being dissolved are Xe (formerly known as Blackwater), NCL, FHI, White Eagles and other small companies, spokesman Waheed Omer said. Both international and domestic companies were affected. Weapons and ammunition belonging to these companies has been seized...Xe has several operations in Afghanistan, some of which will not be immediately affected by the decision..."Until we have Afghan security forces up and running, private security companies will continue to operate and serve in training and protection of foreign embassies," Omer said...Before Sunday's announcement, there were 52 registered private security companies in Afghanistan...Afghan President Hamid Karzai issued a decree last month disbanding all private security firms..."In order to protect Afghan life and property, avoid corruption, security irregularities and the misuse of military weapons, ammunition and uniforms by the private security companies which have caused tragic incidents...I approve shutting down all private security companies within four months..." the decree said.